Labor Day blessings, tradition in Fairfax

Steve Bucher and Dave Lopez season chicken halves at the 158th annual Labor Day Picnic.

The duck pond was a popular game for children.

Fr. James Barkett, pastor, celebrates Mass.

The blessing of the tools is a picnic tradition.

Fr. Jean Nicolas blesses the tools, a picnic tradition.

Roberta Ross (left) and Beth Murphy arrange baked treats for the bake sale.

Sheneika Walker, 16-month-old Piper, and Chris Jackson relax in the shade with their lunch.

Clara Barton is portrayed by Historical Consultant Jenee Lindner.

The church grounds contain an old cemetery.

Parishioners gather under a shade tree to escape the sun.

Elvis impersonator Randoll Rivers entertains the crowd.

James Skees tries his hand at an arcade game.

People gather around a colorful concession stand.

Old St. Mary of Sorrows Church in Fairfax has hosted its annual Labor Day picnic for more than 150 years.